Video: Tesla shows off Model S hitting the road

First came VentureBeat’s scoop on the Model S prototype’s completion. Then came Tesla’s trifecta of professionally-edited videos showing off the engineering of the all-electric 2012 Model S sedan. Now, Tesla has released a video showing the Model S alpha going for a spin on a set of country roads.

The release comes a week after the Detroit Auto Show, and shows off two things: One, Tesla’s sticking with videos rather than press releases, continuing the recent trend of green carmakers using social media to build buzz for their cars. Two, Tesla is looking to keep interest strong in the Model S, which isn’t due to hit the markets for awhile but is considered a major test for the company, which had a blockbuster IPO last year and makes the all-electric Roadster sports car.

Stockholders and Tesla enthusiasts alike have their eyes peeled for news on the Model S. So without further ado, here’s the video — no music, no action-paced fast cuts, just the sound of a rare earths-free all-electric luxury sedan whirring across the pavement.